Licensing for Riding Schools

A lifelong passion can sometimes turn into a career, as is the case for those who decide to teach others to ride.

Any sport that is taught has rules and regulations, and horse riding is no exception. Here, we provide a summary of the important ideas to keep in mind.

Is obtaining a license required by law?

Yes, in the UK a license is required if you operate a riding school or rent out horses and ponies for riding. Your local authority must issue you a license in accordance with the Riding Establishments Acts of 1964 and 1970, which must be renewed annually.

What am I going to need to get a license?

You must show that you or a manager who works for the company is "suitably qualified." This can be accomplished through accreditation (such as those provided by the British Horse Society) or any other recognized method of assessment.

In terms of horse welfare, the Acts also establish requirements that must be followed. This includes caring for them in terms of their physical well-being, shoeing, feeding, and stalling.

The local government will also demand that a vet inspect the property and write a report. After reading the report, they will decide whether or not to conduct their own inspections.

What occurs if I'm rejected?

There is a Magistrates' Court appeals process available to you. The Court has the discretion to either grant, grant with conditions, or deny a license.

Can I receive a temporary license?

Yes, the Local Authority has the authority to issue a three-month provisional license if it believes that a full license cannot be issued right away. This may be continued for an additional three months, but not beyond that.

If you have been given a provisional license and want to make sure you are in compliance with the rules, you should seek advice as soon as you can, ideally well before the initial period is set to expire.

Besides the license, are there any other legal requirements?

Additionally, there needs to be public liability insurance. You should also set up an Employers' Liability Insurance policy if you are hiring staff. There are other concerns that are simple to overlook, like making sure that all of the riding hats that are available for loan meet the necessary safety requirements.

When might I face charges?

The relevant laws established several offenses, one of which was running a riding school without a license. You could receive a fine of up to £1000, up to three months in jail, or even both. Additionally, you will have your license revoked and be disqualified (for a period set by the Court.)

If you provide the Local Authority with false or misleading information in connection with your application, you could also face legal repercussions. There is also a chance of committing other offenses, like those that concern animal welfare.

If you have any questions, get advice right away. People have lost their jobs as a result of riding school-related prosecutions. In all facets of licensing law, including that pertaining to riding schools, such as refusals and revocations, we provide advice and representation. Don't close the stable door after the horse has bolted - if in doubt, always obtain professional legal advice.